Niamey

During a ceremony in the capital, Niamey, Gen Tchiani said of his new military rank: "I receive this distinction with great humility... I will strive to live up to the trust placed in me."

After a ministerial-level meeting on Friday in Niger's capital, Niamey, the three states said in a joint statement that their decision was "irreversible".

Meanwhile, the outlook for Orano's hopes of restoring normal uranium operations and exports from Niger look dim, given the hostile attitude of the military regime in Niamey.

Avenue Charles de Gaulle in the capital, Niamey, is now Avenue Djibo Bakary in honour of the Nigerien politician who played a key role in the West African country’s struggle for independence.

And in Niger jihadists stage regular attacks all over the west, and even within an hour of the capital, Niamey.